Prevent Ants From Marching Into Your Home This Summer

The National Pest Management Association urges homeowners to
take proactive steps to eliminate ants

FAIRFAX Va. – Widely recognized as the
top nuisance pest in America, ants are likely to make an
appearance in many homes around the country this summer. The
National Pest Management Association (NPMA) encourages homeowners
to take proactive steps to reduce the likelihood of seeing ants
crawling across the kitchen counter in the coming weeks.

“When the weather warms, ants often march inside homes in search
of food and water sources,” said Missy Henriksen, vice president of
public affairs for the NPMA. “They most frequently infest kitchens,
but homeowners can also find them in cooler spaces like bathrooms,
basements and around air conditioning units.”

Most species of ants are simply a household nuisance, but a few
can pose serious threats to our health and property. Odorous house
ants are known to contaminate food sources; fire ants attack with a
painful sting when disturbed; and carpenter ants can cause severe
property damage as they tunnel through wood to build nests.

“To prevent these unwelcome visitors from causing more than just
a nuisance, homeowners must take a few proactive steps both inside
and outside the home to eliminate ant harborage sites,” added
Henriksen.

Specifically, experts from the NPMA recommend the following
tips:

Wipe up crumbs and spills immediately

Keep food in sealed containers and dispose of garbage
regularly

Keep pet food and water dishes clean and remove any spilled
food

Seal any cracks and holes on the outside of the home with
silicone caulk